Out of shape Martial Artist

I am a 37-year-old mother of three. In a bit of mid life crisis moment I joined a dojo and began training in martial arts. I will be testing for my 6th belt soon. This has become my own personal Mt. Everest. My friends think I'm insane. My husband is supportive but a bit in shock. I've gotten this far out of sheer determination, but my last belt test was brutal. I have no stamina and wear down quickly. If I am going to acheive my dream of being a black belt, I need to lose 50 pounds give or take. I would love some MFP friends for support.

Hello!
I didn't start martial arts until I was 56 and though I had been losing weight, I was still 30 pounds over weight. I guess I had sort of a 'late life' crisis haha. It took 3 years and 8 months (but who is counting) to get my black belt. I can tell you it takes great perseverance and determination which I am sure you already know. I am really glad I did not give up. I found doing lots of cardio to help a lot with endurance. I walk 6 miles or more most days with around 3 of that at ~4mph. Sparing, jump rope, running, are all very good for cardio. Of course martial arts itself is very good cardio - most lessons are sort of naturally high intensity interval training. Right now, I've let myself get a little out of control and need to lose 20 pounds and yes, it puts a hit on my stamina. Hang in there, don't give up!

Thanks you guys! Glad to have ran across both of you on here. Every time I'm doing my warm ups in class I try to keep an eye on the belts hanging on the wall. They keep me going. Our black belt test is supposedly vicious though I dare say they all are at any school. I'll never get it in my current state. Thanks for the motivation!